Gov. Armstrong Signs EO Declaring A Statewide Fire Emergency

Gov. Kelly Armstrong issued an executive order declaring a statewide fire emergency as drought conditions and wildfire risk intensify across North Dakota amid hot, dry weather.

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The order activates the State Emergency Operations Plan and directs state agencies to prepare for a potentially severe fire season. It follows a sharp increase in drought conditions statewide.

“In just a few months we’ve seen ground conditions shift from lush green to tinder dry across large portions of our state, and we need to be prepared for a potentially intense wildfire season this fall,” Armstrong said. “State government is committed to deploying all resources at our disposal to protect life and property in cooperation with our local, tribal and federal partners. We encourage citizens to keep updated on fire conditions and take precautions to prevent wildfires as we face these challenging conditions together.”

Drought conditions worsen statewide

According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor report released Thursday, more than 56% of North Dakota is now experiencing drought conditions, up from less than 2% three months ago. About 33% of the state is in moderate drought, while 23% is in extreme drought. An additional 36% is classified as abnormally dry.

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Forecasters with the National Weather Service say conditions are unlikely to improve soon, with outlooks calling for above-average temperatures and below-normal precipitation this fall.

Local and tribal jurisdictions across North Dakota have issued fire declarations and restrictions in response to the worsening conditions. State resources, including the North Dakota Forest Service and the state Wildland Fire Task Force, have already responded to multiple wildfires this summer and are expected to remain active into the fall.

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The emergency declaration directs agencies, including the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services, North Dakota Forest Service, and North Dakota National Guard, to maintain a high level of readiness. The order remains in effect through Dec. 1 unless extended.